FIRST LADY STYLE - 2013

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA AND FIRST LADY MICHELLE OBAMA - PH: GETTY IMAGESBarack Obama was inaugurated for his second term on January 21st, 2013.   While Mr. Obama has inspired the world with his humanity and vision of America, his lovely wife Michelle is inspirational on her own with an impeccable sense of style.   While Michelle Obama is an accomplished lawyer, mother, and wife, it is her fashion sense that sends many swooning.  Mrs. Obama has been able to achieve what so many attempt - a mix of high-low price points that remains sophisticated AND age appropriate.   It's a difficult balance as wife of the President of the United States, to appear First Lady-like but not elitist.   A dazzling mix of J.Crew items has peppered Mrs. Obama's wardrobe and really taken it to such a modern place.  Many dresses and cardigans from this all American brand have kept Mrs. Obama colorful and on trend.  On inauguration day J.Crew Gloves and a studded belt kept her accessorized in style.FIRST LADY MICHELLE OBAMA - IN THOM BROWNE & J.CREW  For the inauguration, a Jason Wu gown was once again chosen for the gala.   Thom Browne scored big being chosen to dress the first lady during the inauguration ceremony.   No mention of Michelle Obama's style would be complete without a nod to Ikram Goldman in Chicago.  Ikram has built a loyal following to her boutique of the same name.  Long before she had national spotlight, Mrs. Obama had Ikram directing her style choices.   It's easy to see why the first lady remained IKRAM - CHICAGO - NEW LOCATION PH: JASON JOBSONa loyal client, Ikram is a sweet and genuine person - well liked in the industry.   I have worked with her many afternoons over the years in designer showrooms - and it was always a pleasure!  

MICHELLE OBAMA - MODERN FASHION ICON

MICHELLE OBAMA WITH FRENCH FIRST LADY - CARLA BRUNIAs the Obama's returned from their first European trip as President and First Lady one thing is certain- Michelle Obama proved her ability to charm a nation is not limited to the United States.  

As effortless as Barack Obama made the stressful, and at times tense G20 summit look - Michelle was just as composed as she put country after country under her spell.   There is an authenticity to the Obama's that is obvious in ever gesture they make and every sentence they speak.    Michelle has excited the fashion world as the latest fashion icon.  While it may be early to make these proclamations - it does come with the territory.  Every First Lady is at the same time held in high esteem and criticized for any fashion faux pas - real or imagined.

What is so exciting about Mrs. Obama is she has a modern approach to fashion.   Mrs. Obama has brought attention to wonderful brands that show women can attend the most formal affair - even if your budget doesn't permit French Couture or strictly designer price points.   No-one has looked better - embracing color, style, and above all fashion.  Not a fashion victim mind you - just a women who wears fashion that flatters and who will also take risks - not always doing what is expected.

Designers are taking note.   Azzedine Alaia is said to be thrilled with how Obama looked in a black dress of his design she wore in Baden-Baden.    Rosella Jardini - Creative Director of Moschino is also on Obama's style bandwagon.   As is Brunello Cucinelli the Italian designer of his namesake collection and of Gunex Pants - which Obama wore during the trip as well.   Needless to say Mickey Drexler of J.Crew is a happy camper - the company could not have wished for a better endorsement - especially one on the global stage!  Jason Wu also received more press than he could have ever hoped for when Obama wore his designs in January.

Not so thrilled with Michelle Obama is Oscar de La Renta.   Oscar thinks Mrs. Obama should stick to more traditional designers (likely his own) when she is attending official engagements.    What can you say?   Oscar is from another era - and Laura Bush - Michelle Obama is NOT.

MLK Day - Let Us All Take A Moment To Respect.

Today America celebrates the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.- and reflects on the tragedy of his assassination.    Let us all take a moment to pay our respects to this man who changed the course of history.    With the inauguration of Barack Obama tomorrow - may we all focus on the sentiments of good will that are being directed at us from all over the world.

This clip was Dr. King's last public statement - prophetic and powerful. 

Remember - Equality is Always in style.

OBAMA - He's Bringing Suiting Back!

President Elect Barack Obama is responsible for creating a renewed interest in Men's dressing.   Obama is a sharp dressed man.   As we all saw from the recent tabloid pics, Mr. Obama looks good regardless if he is in a suit and tie or in board shorts.   The country hasn't seen a president who looks this good since JFK - and I don't know that we have ever had a president who was in better physical shape than Barack.    It doesn't matter if you shop at Men's Werehouse or Barneys there are many,  many options for you to emulate the look.  

Mr. Obama will inspire an entire generation of young men to dress the part for their professional life.

The fashion world is all saying  - Hail to the Chief!